Ponce Inlet sits between the Atlantic and the Halifax River on the tip of a barrier island. The town’s 11-mile distance from downtown deters tourists but delights locals as life here is slower, and less commercial. "Ponce Inlet is one of the least populated and least built-up areas in Daytona Beach," says Davis Hamilton of Ocean Properties and Management, who's sold homes in the city for 20 years. "Most beach towns in Florida are beginning to get overbuilt as far as the natives are concerned." Light pollution here is minimal, not only because Ponce Inlet remains so natural, but also because protections are in place for sea turtle hatchlings who rely on the guidance of clear moonlight. With the trifecta of the ocean, the Halifax River and Spruce Creek flowing through the town, life here is wrapped around waterside recreation and dining. The best view of the coastline comes from the community's historic lighthouse, the tallest in Florida.
The Ponce Inlet lighthouse is a focal point at Lighthouse Point Park.
The observation tower at Lighthouse Point Park overlooks the Halifax River.
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Ponce Inlet's known for its calming coastline
The coastline of Ponce Inlet is spacious and quiet and just a walk from any house. "I had a beach home in New Jersey, and you'd go to the beach in the summertime, and you could reach out and touch someone. You come down to our beach, and you're lucky and surprised if someone is 20 yards away from you," says John Oebbecke, the director and vice president of the Ponce Inlet Community Center. The town also has several nature preserves. To the north, Ponce Preserve's winding trails lead through mangroves, and its boardwalk connects to both the Halifax River and the beach. The preserve is also known for its historic shell mound, which was left behind by the indigenous community. Hamilton says the mound is so tall that sailors used it to guide them to the shore before the lighthouse existed. Lighthouse Point Park offers an untouched coastline to the south where people fish off the jetty and let their dogs run. Timucuan Oaks Garden preserves the town's wetland and offers canoe and kayak launches. The area has several boat ramps for larger vessels, including one along the A1A. Meanwhile, Harbour Village Marina is in town for boat storage.
Bring your pup to the dog friendly swimming area at Lighthouse Point Park.
Lighthouse Point Park offers many opportunities to fish, either on land or off the dock.
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Beachy dwellings along the Halifax River and Atlantic Ocean
Homebuyers will find an eclectic mix of beachy dwellings spread between tall palms and well-landscaped lawns in Ponce Inlet. "There are some built high on stilts. A lot of them have old-time metal roofs. But there's every kind you can think of in Ponce Inlet: Mediterranean-style, contemporary-style, old Florida-style housing," Hamilton says. In addition to single-family homes, there are plenty of condos and a few townhouses. Townhouses list in the $300,000 to $400,000 range. Condos price from the mid-$300,000s to the high $800,000s when they are on the ocean. And single-family homes generally range from the high $600,000s to over $1 million. A rare few inland homes begin in the $200,000s, and ultra-luxury beachside mansions can rise to $3 million. Outside of square footage and condition, pricing is determined by proximity to the water. The community’s CAP Index Crime Score is 1 out of 10, much lower than the national average of 4. Though Florida is prone to hurricanes, Hamilton says it's not an issue here. "This area is one of the least affected areas in Florida by hurricanes. The gulf stream will steer the hurricanes up to the Carolinas." Oceanside properties must use special shutters and lighting to protect the local turtle population.
Lush mature trees provide shade and privacy to homes in Ponce Inlet.
This row of Ponce Inlet homes have clean lines and clear views.
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Climb to the Moon at the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
Live music plays at Ponce Inlet’s waterside restaurants throughout the week. Most establishments have large decks where the bands play from, and people steer to the events on their boats. Friends also anchor at islands along the Halifax River, which Hamilton says become “party havens” during the day. For family fun, the lighthouse’s museum puts on a monthly Climb to the Moon event that offers evening tours paired with beverages. Bonds also form at the Ponce Inlet Community Center on Peninsula Drive. “Every resident of Ponce Inlet is indeed a standing member of the community center,” Oebbecke says. “We are fortunate to have several clubs — Garden, Womens, Lions, Veterans, Art Guild — that use the Center for all their activities. We also have numerous exercise and yoga classes conducted during the week.”
The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is known for being the tallest in the state.
Ponce Inlet's Lighthouse Park has a gift shop and museum open to residents and visitors.
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Down the Hatch and Boatyard has been here since the 1940s
Dock-and-dine restaurants are plentiful. For an extra casual spot, residents head to Hidden Treasure Rum Bar and Grill, where they dine on key lime pie and shrimp. Down the Hatch and Boatyard has been around since the 1940s and serves a daily special to keep things fresh. Lighthouse Ice Cream & Snacks is a go-to for a sweet treat. Locals can rent a sunset cruise or trip out to the sandbar on the local Tiki Boat. Ponce Inlet isn't known for its retail options. "It takes a special kind of person to live here. One who enjoys the solitude of the area," Hamilton says. "There are no shopping centers with grocery stores in Ponce Inlet. You're going to have to travel probably 6 miles or so north on the A1A to get to Daytona Beach Shores before you get to any shopping center." Florida State Route A1A is the bridge to the mainland and leads to Publix in just over 7 miles.
Down The Hatch in Ponce Inlet serves fresh seafood, drinks and has beautiful river views.
Grab a seat at the bar and enjoy great food & drinks at Our Deck Down Under in Ponce Inlet.
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B to B-plus-rated schools on Niche
Public school options are through Volusia County Schools in neighboring mainland communities. Students may start at Port Orange Elementary School, which receives a B-plus rating from Niche. Silver Sands Middle and Atlantic High earn B ratings, and the high school is known for its accomplished athletic programs. The Atlantic Sharks have won several state championships since 2010, from bowling to basketball and tennis. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona State College and University of Central Florida Daytona Beach are higher education options within 12 miles.
R.J. Longstreet Elementary School is located between the ocean and the river.
Silver Sands Middle School, in Port Orange, is just minutes from the Allandale community.
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Dunlawton Avenue connects locals to the mainland
Locals can head into the mainland and major highways, including U.S. Route 1, interstates 95 and 4 via the A1A, aka Dunlawton Avenue. The closest hospital is Halifax Health Medical Center, around 13 miles away. Disney World is within 80 miles following I-4, making it less than a 2-hour drive away. Though most residents commute by car, there are bus stops lining South Atlantic Avenue — a major road here — through Votran, Volusia County’s public transportation service.
The Votran provides public transportation to Ponce Inlet and surrounding areas.
Use the Dunlawton Bridge for easy access to the mainland in Ponce Inlet.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Happy Trails Dog Park
Dog Park
Parking Lot
Ponce Inlet Lighthouse Park
Beach
Ponce Preserve
Bike Trails
Fishing
Picnic Area
Smyrna Dunes Park
Timothy T. Pollard Memorial Park
Basketball
Picnic Area
Tennis
Winter Haven Park
Trails
Beach
Timucuan Park
Doris Leeper Park
Transit
Airport
Daytona Beach International
19 min drive
Bus
Inlet Harbor Plaza Ib
Bus
Calumet Ave. & S. Atlantic Ib
Bus
4745 S. Atlantic Ib
Bus
Winterhaven Av. & S. Atlantic Ib
Bus
Us 1 & Creekside Ob
Bus
4312 S. Atlantic Ob
Bus
S. Atlantic & Inlet Harbor Ob
Reviews
Niche Reviews
5.03 Reviews
5.0Current Resident
2/17/2021Niche Review
I love my town, I moved here four years ago to be closer to the beach and to have a more relaxed lifestyle. Everyone that lives here is so nice, it is amazingly safe. There are police that patrol all times of the day and night, and there are even local clubs and sports that you can do in the free time. I think that it is a really nice place to raise kids, being brought up near the ocean has really made me an environmentalist. Overall it is a really nice community, and I have no suggestions or bad things to say about it.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Ponce Inlet
US
Homicide
1
4
Sexual Assault
1
4
Assault with Weapon
1
4
Robbery
1
4
Burglary
1
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
1
4
Larceny
1
4
Crime Score
1
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Ponce Inlet, FL sell after 97 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Ponce Inlet, FL over the last 12 months is $654,613, down 11% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This stunning oceanfront condo offers the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility, nestled on a private, no-drive beach. Boasting 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 modern bathrooms, this pet-friendly retreat is ideal for those seeking a coastal escape. The open floor plan features a large kitchen designed for entertaining, flowing seamlessly into the living and dining areas. Step outside onto the
Searching for a spacious condo with direct access to the ocean? Look no further! This fantastic 2nd-floor condo in The Towers at Ponce Inlet, offers partial ocean views and nearly 2,100 square feet of living space. With two master suites, an additional guest bedroom and bathroom, and private laundry, this condo has it all. Enjoy ocean views from the large north-facing balcony. The kitchen is
Beautifully redone three story unit with a Ocean Peak and garage. Stroll across the street on either end of the development for direct access to the Ocean and no drive beach. Two balconies and a porch to enjoy those sunrises and sunsets. Elegant kitchen with wood cabinets, quartz counter tops and stainless steel appliances. Living room with real wood fireplace opening up to the front porch.
Welcome to your dream home in the charming Light House Shores community! This beautifully updated four-bedroom, four-bath home offers a perfect blend of comfort and style. With 2,526 square feet of living space, it is designed for both relaxation and entertainment.Step inside to discover elegant ceramic tile flooring and an inviting family living area featuring a cozy wood-burning
A Masterpiece of Unparalleled Elegance on the IntracoastalA rare opportunity to own an architectural triumph—this 12,000-square-foot gated estate is the epitome of European craftsmanship, set on three private acres with 130 feet of direct Intracoastal waterfront. Designed over five years at a cost exceeding 11 million, this palatial masterpiece would require nearly 20 million to replicate
THIS IS THE ONE YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR! PRICED TO SELL AND TURNKEY! THIS STUNNING REMODELED NORTHEAST CORNER CONDOMINIUM IS SITUATED ON THE TRANQUIL "NO DRIVE" BEACH IN PONCE INLET. ENJOY PEACE OF MIND WITH NEW HURRICANE SHUTTERS! BRING YOUR BATHING SUIT AND *ENJOY THIS FURNISHED CONDO! (30-day rentals allowed to generate additional income).THE UPGRADES ARE SO CHIC! TILE FLOORING
Property Id: 1529924Text or voice message - (725+ credit score required) —Large pristine 3BR/2BA HUGE POOL in Ponce Inlet 1/4 mile walk to Near Lighthouse and great restaurants - Lovely Huge Enclosed Pool -Situated on a quiet cu-de-sacBright beachside home - 3 blocks to beach - one block to Intracoastal - near marinaSplit 3 bedroom single level open floor
2 bedroom 2 bathroom ocean and river view condo At The Towers In Ponce Inlet! Walking distance to North Turn. 3 pools, Gym, Tennis. Nearby dog park and pickle ball courts. First Months Rent, Last Months rent & matching security deposit.
Yearly Rental Available This stunning oceanview condo in Ponce Inlet provides a luxurious coastal lifestyle with its exceptional features and amenities. Situated on the highly sought-after no-drive beach,this fully renovated 3-bed,3-bath unit on the 1st floor of a 7-story building offers modern comforts and style. Each bedroom boasts a tastefully designed bathroom and custom closets. A
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Walter Borgen,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
5,572
Median Age
66
Population Density
2 ppl/acre
Population under 18
8.7%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
51.9%
Significantly above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$90,636
Above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$112,955
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
96.5%
College Graduates
51.6%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
20.5%
% Population in Labor Force
38.9%
Significantly below the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
50''
Average Winter Low Temperature
49°F
Average Summer High Temperature
90°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
26/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
1/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
